Jul 23 2024

Appointment of RSS-affiliated persons to govt jobs

  • Recently , the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) issued an order lifting the restriction on government employees taking part in the activities of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS)

Court Judgement:

  • Judgement: The top court ruled that denying employment based on past political affinities violates Articles 14 and 16 of the Constitution, unless such affinities impact service integrity and efficiency.

Pralay Missiles

Pralay Missiles

  • Armenia’s interest in acquiring India’s Pralay missile presents a notable opportunity for India.

Pralay Missiles:

  • About: The ‘Pralay’ is a short-range, quasi-ballistic surface-to-surface missile with a range of 350-500 km. It has a payload capacity of 500-1,000 kg and is powered by solid fuel.
  • Developed by: Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the missile addresses India’s defense needs along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and Line of Control (LoC).
  • Features: The Pralay missile maintains an atmospheric flight and follows a flat trajectory. 
    • It is propelled by a solid propellant rocket motor and uses inertial guidance for navigation, allowing for control throughout its flight.
    • For terminal guidance, it employs a radio frequency Digital Scene-Matching Area Correlation (DSMAC) seeker and is equipped with an indigenously developed Fused Silica Radar Dome (RADOME).

Olympic Order

Olympic Order

  • Olympic gold medal winning shooter Abhinav Bindra was awarded the Olympic Order by the International Olympic Committee (IOC).

Olympic Order:

  • About: The Olympic Order is the highest award of the IOC, given for distinguished contributions to the Olympic Movement. 
  • Awarded: It is awarded to recognize an individual who has illustrated the Olympic ideal through his/her action, has achieved remarkable merit in the sporting world, or has rendered outstanding services to the Olympic cause, either through his own personal achievement or his contribution to the development of sport. 
  • Nominations: Nominations are proposed by the Olympic Orders Council and decided upon by the Executive Board.

 

Enroll now for UPSC Online Course

Must Read
UPSC Daily Editorials UPSC Daily Current Affairs
Check Out UPSC NCERT Textbooks From PW Store Check Out UPSC Modules From PW Store 
Check Out Previous Years Papers From PW Store UPSC Test Series 2024
Daily Current Affairs Quiz Daily Main Answer Writing
Check Out UPSC CSE Books From PW Store

 

Recently, Genetically Modified pigs are being raised under stringent biosecurity measures to provide a viable supply of organs for human transplantation, addressing the critical shortage of donor organs.

  • This ensures that the pigs remain pathogen-free, safeguarding the health of human transplant recipients.

Xenotransplantation

Cleanest Pigs

  • About: It is the transplantation of cells, tissues or organs from one species to another, particularly from animals to humans.
  • Reason for Xenotransplantation: 
    • Organ Shortage: There is a significant shortage of human organs for transplantation, with thousands of patients dying each year while waiting for a suitable donor.
    • Ready-Made Supply: Animals, particularly genetically modified pigs, offer the promise of a readily available and scalable source of transplantable organs.
    • Disease-Free Organs: It can be possible to modify pigs to make their organs more compatible with the human immune system, reducing the risk of rejection.
    • Research and Development: Successful xenotransplantation could drive further scientific and medical advancements, offering new solutions for various medical conditions and diseases.
  • Associated Risks: There is greater risk of High Organ rejection rate and Risk of infection from an animal organ etc.

Enroll now for UPSC Online Course

Process involved in Xenotransplantation

  • CRISPR-Cas9 (Gene Editing Technology) is utilised to eliminate specific pig genes that produce antigens triggering human immune responses and adding human genes to make pig organs more compatible.
  • Cloning and Embryo Creation: Pig genes are modified in a lab to reduce immune rejection and blood clot risks. 
    • Scientists use a technique similar to cloning Dolly the sheep and the embryos with genetic modifications are implanted into sows on a research farm.
  • Breeding and Raising Pigs: Pigs are bred and raised in pathogen-free facilities to ensure their organs are free from infections. 
    • These facilities maintain strict biosecurity measures, such as filtered air, disinfected feed, and sterilised environments.
  • Selection and Harvesting of Organs: Pigs are raised to a specific size to match the organ requirements of human recipients. 
    • Once the pigs reach the appropriate size, organs are harvested under sterile conditions.
  • Transplantation Surgery: The selected pig organ is transplanted into a human recipient following standard organ transplant procedures. 
    • The recipient is monitored closely for signs of rejection and infection.

Challenges and Implications

  • Risk of Disease Transmission: One primary concern is the risk of transmitting animal diseases to humans, potentially causing new and unmanageable pandemics.
  • Animal Welfare: Raising animals for the sole purpose of organ harvesting raises concerns about the ethical treatment of animals. 
  • Genetic Modification might lead to Unpredictable Outcomes: To make organs more compatible, animals, primarily pigs, have been genetically modified. This can lead to unforeseen consequences that can affect both the animal and the human recipient.
  • Human Identity and Dignity: There are philosophical concerns about whether receiving an animal organ might affect a person’s sense of humanity or dignity.
  • Religious and Cultural Concerns: Some religions or cultures might object to humans receiving animal organs or using animals in this way.

Check Out UPSC CSE Books From PW Store

Reasons for Pigs being Often Used in the process of Xenotransplantation

  • Similar Organ Size and Physiology: Pigs have organ sizes, physiological metabolism, and immune systems that closely resemble those of humans.
  • Versatility of Organs: Various pig organs, including the heart, liver, and lungs, can be used for xenotransplantation.
  • Cost-Effective Breeding: Breeding pigs on farms is widespread and cost-effective, making them a practical choice for organ harvesting.
  • Diverse Breeds: The availability of different pig breeds allows for the possibility of matching harvested organs with the specific needs of human recipients.

 

Must Read
UPSC Daily Editorials UPSC Daily Current Affairs
Check Out UPSC NCERT Textbooks From PW Store Check Out UPSC Modules From PW Store 
Check Out Previous Years Papers From PW Store UPSC Test Series 2024
Daily Current Affairs Quiz Daily Main Answer Writing
Check Out UPSC CSE Books From PW Store

 

Scientists at the NOvA (NuMI Off-axis 𝜈e Appearance) collaboration in Minnesota, U.S., are conducting advanced research on neutrinos. Their latest data acquisition sheds light on neutrino mass and their significance in cosmic evolution. 

Neutrinos/Ghost Particle

  • About: Neutrinos are a type of subatomic particle. 

Historical Context of Neutrinos

  • First Detection: Neutrinos were first detected from a supernova explosion in 1987, with detections made three hours before the light from the explosion reached Earth. 
    • This marked the beginning of neutrino astronomy.
  • Mass Assumption: For nearly 50 years, physicists assumed neutrinos were massless like photons. 
    • This assumption was based on the idea that massive particles cannot travel at the speed of light.

Breakthroughs in Neutrino Research

  • Discovery of Mass: In the late 1990s, evidence from Japan and Canada showed that neutrinos have mass because they can change from one type to another as they travel, which massless particles cannot do.
  • Standard Model Update: The discovery of neutrino mass challenges the Standard Model of particle physics, which does not initially predict massive neutrinos.
    • They don’t have an electric charge, have a small mass, and are left-handed (a physics term meaning the direction of its spin is opposite to the direction of its motion). 
  • Reason for them to be called Ghost Particles: The rarity of interactions with other particles makes them almost impossible to track. 
    • That’s why they’re called ghost particles — the vast majority skirt around undetected.Abundance of Neutrinos: They are the second-most abundant particles after photons (particles of light) and the most abundant among particles that make up matter.

Enroll now for UPSC Online Classes

  • Production and Sources of Neutrinos: Neutrinos are generally produced when leptons interact with matter.
    • It can be obtained from both natural (Cosmological neutrinos (the Big-bang), etc.) and man-made (Reactor neutrinos (during fission), etc.) sources. 
  • Types/Flavours: Neutrinos come in three types or “flavours” – electron neutrino, tau neutrino and muon neutrino.
    • Neutrino Oscillation: They can change from one flavour to another as they travel. This process is called neutrino oscillation and is an unusual quantum phenomenon.
      • Example: Neutrinos from the Sun are initially electron-neutrinos, but on Earth, many of them are detected as muon-neutrinos.
  • Observation: Neutrinos’ weak charge and almost nonexistent mass have made them notoriously difficult for scientists to observe. 
    • They can only be “seen” when they interact with other particles.
  • Neutrino Detection Methods
    • Physicists have constructed detectors with very fine tracking capabilities to study neutrinos.
    • These detectors are also designed to be large to maximise the number of interactions between neutrinos and the detector’s matter.

NOvA Overview

  • Acronym: NOvA stands for ‘NuMI Off-axis νe Appearance’.
  • Location: It is located in Minnesota, United States.
  • Function: NOvA creates a beam of neutrinos.
  • Detection: The neutrino beam travels 800 km to a 14,000-tonne detector.
  • Management: NOvA is managed by the Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory.
    • Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory (Fermilab), is a United States Department of Energy national laboratory specialising in high-energy particle physics.

Goals and Findings of NOvA

  • Cosmic Evolution: NOvA is designed to determine the role of neutrinos in the evolution of the cosmos.
  • Neutrino Mass: It aims to understand which type of neutrino has the most mass and which has the least.
  • Mass Mechanism: This is crucial because neutrinos may acquire their mass through a different mechanism than other matter particles.
  • Physics Questions: Unravelling this could answer many open questions in physics.
  • Key Findings: Neutrinos come in three varieties: muon, electron, and tau. Recent results from the NOvA experiment suggest that among these, there are two lighter neutrinos and one heavier neutrino.

Check Out UPSC NCERT Textbooks From PW Store

Significance of Studying Neutrinos

  • Better Understanding of the Universe: Understanding neutrinos helps us unravel the mysteries of the universe’s formation and its current state.
  • Information Carriers: Neutrinos can travel through most matter without interaction, allowing them to carry information across vast distances.
    • While electromagnetic waves are commonly used for transmitting information, they are not always effective in all situations. 
    • Neutrinos can provide critical data where electromagnetic waves may fall short.
    • Example: Seawater is opaque to electromagnetic radiation of shorter wavelength, which impedes the transmission of waves of certain frequencies to submarines. Neutrinos on the other hand can easily pass through 1,000 light years (9,400 million million km) of lead, so an ocean will hardly be a barrier.

Experiments involving Neutrino Universe and India Neutrino Project (INO):

  • Key Neutrino Experiments
    • Super-K III: Located in Japan.
    • Sudbury Neutrino Observatory (SNO+): Based in Canada.
    • MiniBOONE and MicroBOONE: Based in the U.S.
    • Double CHOOZ: Situated in France.
    • Jiangmen Underground Neutrino Observatory (JUNO): Located in China.
    • OPERA: Conducted in Switzerland.
    • IceCube Neutrino Observatory:  It is the world’s largest neutrino telescope located in Antarctica.
  • India’s Neutrino Project
    • India-based Neutrino Observatory (INO): Planned for Tamil Nadu, India.
    • Location: The INO collaboration has decided on a site in the Bodi West Hills (BWH) region in the Theni district of Tamil Nadu.
    • Funding and Support: Funded by the Department of Atomic Energy.
    • Current Status: Faces an uncertain future due to procedural issues and lack of political support.

 

Must Read
UPSC Daily Editorials UPSC Daily Current Affairs
Check Out UPSC NCERT Textbooks From PW Store Check Out UPSC Modules From PW Store 
Check Out Previous Years Papers From PW Store UPSC Test Series 2024
Daily Current Affairs Quiz Daily Main Answer Writing
Check Out UPSC CSE Books From PW Store

 

The Economic Survey 2023-24 highlights mental health as crucial for individual and national development, marking its first extensive inclusion in policy recommendations.

What is Mental Health?

  • Mental health is a state of mental well-being that enables people to cope with stresses of life, realise their abilities, learn well and work well, and contribute to their community.

Status of Mental Healthcare in India

  • About: The prevalence of mental disorders among children aged 13-17 was 7.3% for both genders. Additionally, 26.8% of girls were married below the legal age, and 8% of girls aged 15-19 were either mothers or pregnant. 
  • Gender Issues in Adolescents: The survey also revealed that 37% of women aged 15-24 have faced physical, sexual, or emotional violence from their husbands, which includes some girls of school age.
  • Rising Student suicides: Since 2011, student suicides have risen from 7,696 in 2011 to 13,089 in 2021. Among those under 18, 1,408 cases cited illness as the reason for suicide, with 58% related to mental health issues. Additionally, 1,495 cases were attributed to ‘love affairs’ and 864 to ‘failure in exams.’

Enroll now for UPSC Online Course

Issues with Mental Health

  • Stigma: Mental health patients frequently avoid seeking help due to widespread stigma, leading to significant psychological isolation.
  • Treatment Discontinuation: Extended treatment, including counseling, can last over a year and be prohibitively expensive, causing patients to discontinue care.
  • Limited Hospital Beds: India has only 1.43 mental health hospital beds per 100,000 people, far below the median of seven in low-income countries and 50 in high-income countries.
  • Insufficient Psychologists: As of 2017, India has only 0.15 psychologists per 100,000 people, while the need is for three psychiatrists per 100,000.
  • Inadequate Training for Doctors: Doctor training does not adequately address the broad spectrum of mental illnesses requiring diagnosis and treatment.
  • Resource Gaps in PHCs: Medication supply at Primary Health Care (PHC) centers is often irregular and insufficient for the range of mental health conditions.

Key Findings of the Economic Survey 2023-24

  • Economic Impact: The Survey mentions that at an aggregate economic level, mental health disorders are associated with significant productivity losses due to absenteeism, decreased productivity, disability, and increased healthcare costs.
  • Poverty and Mental Health Risk: There is also evidence of poverty exacerbating the risk of mental health due to stressful living conditions, financial instability, and lack of opportunities for upward mobility, which contribute to heightened psychological distress.
  • Mental Health Data: The Survey states that, according to the National Mental Health Survey (NMHS) 2015-16, 10.6% adults in India suffered from mental disorders, while the treatment gap for mental disorders ranged between 70% and 92% for different disorders. 
  • Urban vs. Rural Mental Health Rates: Further, the prevalence of mental morbidity was higher in urban metropolitan regions (13.5%) compared with rural areas (6.9%) and urban non-metro areas (4.3%). 
  • Adolescent Mental Health Trends: The Economic Survey highlights an increasing prevalence of poor mental health among adolescents exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, with 11% of students reported as feeling anxious, 14% feeling extreme emotion, and 43% experiencing mood swings.
  • Recommendations: Recognising mental health as a fundamental aspect of overall well-being, the Survey has recommended proper implementation of healthcare programmes to accelerate improvements made in mental healthcare on the ground, and address gaps in existing programmes to maximise their effectiveness. 
  • Government Mental Health Initiatives: It has listed out key initiatives and policies taken by the government, including the National Mental Health Programme, National Tele Mental Health Programme, increasing mental health personnel, and the Rashtriya Kishor Swasthya Karyakram’s adolescent-friendly health clinics (AFHCs) and peer education programmes.
    • Other initiatives include the Central government’s efforts to raise the number of psychiatrists from 0.75 per lakh population in 2021 to the World Health Organization’s norm of three psychiatrists per lakh population.

Check Out UPSC CSE Books From PW Store

Must Read
UPSC Daily Editorials UPSC Daily Current Affairs
Check Out UPSC NCERT Textbooks From PW Store Check Out UPSC Modules From PW Store 
Check Out Previous Years Papers From PW Store UPSC Test Series 2024
Daily Current Affairs Quiz Daily Main Answer Writing
Check Out UPSC CSE Books From PW Store

 

A group of senators in Liberia has suggested relocating the capital city, Monrovia.

About Liberia and Its Geographical Features

  • Liberia is officially recognised as the Republic of Liberia. 
  • It is a country on the West African coast.
  • LiberiaIt is situated in northern and western hemispheres.
  • Bordering regions: Liberia is bordered by 
    • Northwest: Sierra Leone
    • North: Guinea
    • East: Ivory Coast
    • South and Southwest: Atlantic Ocean

Other Important points

  • Oldest Republic: It is Africa’s oldest republic.
    • Independence Declared: Liberia declared its independence in 1847 from America. 
  • Economy of Liberia : Liberia’s economy relies mainly on agriculture.
    • Imports: The country imports raw materials, equipment, and consumer goods.
    • Export Production: Large-scale production for export involves foreign investment, especially in:
      • Rubber
      • Forestry
      • Mining
  • Major rivers: 
    • Northwest: The Mano and Morro rivers 
    • East and southeast: Cavalla  
  • Highest mountain: Mount Wuteve

Enroll now for UPSC Online Course

Must Read
UPSC Daily Editorials UPSC Daily Current Affairs
Check Out UPSC NCERT Textbooks From PW Store Check Out UPSC Modules From PW Store 
Check Out Previous Years Papers From PW Store UPSC Test Series 2024
Daily Current Affairs Quiz Daily Main Answer Writing
Check Out UPSC CSE Books From PW Store

 

India will apply for licenses to explore for deep-sea minerals in the Pacific Ocean as it competes to secure supplies of minerals critical for energy transition technologies.

  • India’s Ministry of Earth Sciences is gearing up to apply for exploration of seabed minerals in the Pacific.
  • China, Russia, and some Pacific Island nations have already secured exploration licenses for the Pacific Ocean.

Deep Sea Exploration Licence

International Seabed Authority

 

  • The UN-backed International Seabed Authority (ISA) has issued 31 deep-sea exploration licences in total,  including two for India in the Indian Ocean, but is yet to allow mining.
    • Total Area Assigned: More than 1.5 million km2 of international seabed, roughly the size of Mongolia, has been set aside for mineral exploration.
  • Present Status of India: India has been allotted a site of 75,000 sq. km. in the Central Indian Ocean Basin (CIOB) by ISA for the exploitation of polymetallic nodules (PMN).
    • Technology Demonstrator:  India’s National Institute of Ocean Technology conducted trials of its mining machine at a depth of 5,270m in the central Indian Ocean basin and collected some polymetallic nodules in 2022 as part of the Deep Sea Ocean Mission.
  • India’s Plans: India is planning to get a licence to explore the Clarion-Clipperton Zone (a vast plain between Hawaii and Mexico containing large volumes of polymetallic nodules)
    • India has submitted applications to ISA for exploration focused on the Carlsberg Ridge and Afanasy-Nikitin Seamount regions, known for polymetallic sulphide deposits and ferromanganese crusts.

Enroll now for UPSC Online Course

The International Seabed Authority (ISA):

  • Establishment: The International Seabed Authority came into existence on 16 November 1994, established under the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and the 1994 Agreement relating to the Implementation of Part XI of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.
  • Headquarters: Kingston, Jamaica.
  • Membership: It has 169 Members in total, including 168 Member States and the European Union. USA is not a member
    • Article 156(2) of the UNCLOS, states that all States Parties to UNCLOS are ipso facto members of ISA.
  • Mandate: ISA organizes and controls all mineral-resources-related activities in the High Seas Area and ensures the effective protection of the marine environment from harmful effects that may arise from deep-seabed-related activities.
    • The High Seas Area: It is an area in international waters comprising  all parts of the sea that are not included in the exclusive economic zone, the territorial sea or the internal waters of a State, or in the archipelagic waters of an archipelagic State
      • It covers around 54 per cent of the total area of the world’s oceans.
  • Governance Structure: The ISA is composed of four principal organs ie, 
    • The Assembly: It is the supreme decision-making and political organ of the ISA formed by all members of the ISA, with the power to establish the general policies of the ISA and  approve the rules and regulations recommended by the Council.
      • The Assembly also elects the Finance Committee, which oversees the financial management of the ISA 
    • The Council: It  is the executive organ of the ISA with the  power to establish the specific policies of the ISA and to recommend rules, regulations and procedures.The Council has two organs, namely,
      • The Legal and Technical Commission (LTC) and The Economic and Planning Commission 
    • The  Secretariat: It provides administrative and legal services, as well as scientific and technical input, through its offices of Administrative Services, Legal Affairs and Environmental Management, Mineral Resources
    • The  Enterprise: It is the operational arm of the ISA, which shall carry out mineral-related activities in the Area

International Seabed Authority

  • Exploration Contracts: With the establishment of ISA in 1994, exploration activities for mineral resources in the Area began to be regulated under exploration contracts.
    • ISA has entered into 15-year contracts for the exploration for polymetallic nodules (PMN), polymetallic sulfides (PMS) and cobalt-rich ferromanganese crusts (CFC) in the deep seabed with 31 contractors 
      • The ISA has only issued exploration contracts, but is developing regulations to govern the transition to exploitation.
    • Polymetallic  Nodules: Found in the Clarion-Clipperton Fracture Zone (17), and Central Indian Ocean Basin (1), and Western Pacific Ocean (1).
    • Polymetallic Sulphides: Seven contracts for exploration in the SouthWest Indian Ridge, Central Indian Ridge and the Mid-Atlantic Ridge are given. 
    • Cobalt-rich Ferromanganese Crusts (CFC): Five contracts are awarded for exploration for cobalt-rich crusts in the Western Pacific Ocean.

Polymetallic Nodules

International Seabed Authority

  • Formation: Nodules require a nucleus (A piece of pumice, a shark tooth, basalt debris or even microfossils) around which it starts forming 
    • Process: The metals get enriched around the nucleus either hydro genetically by the precipitation of metals from the seawater or through release from the interstitial spaces between the underlying sediments
  • Occurrence: The deposits of economic importance occur mostly at 4,000-6,000 meters depths in areas of extremely low sedimentation rate.
  • Found:They are found in areas off the west coast of Mexico in the Pacific (known as the Clarion-Clipperton Fracture Zone), the Central Indian Ocean Basin, and the Peru basin.
  • Composition:These are potato-shaped rocks that lie on the seafloor and are composed mainly of Manganese, Iron, silicates and hydroxides but also rich in cobalt, nickel, and copper (The Rare Earth Elements) 
  • Size: The nodules vary from micro-nodules to about 20 cm, the common size being two to eight centimeters.

Polymetallic Sulphides

International Seabed Authority

  • Found: Massive polymetallic sulphide deposits are 3D deposits and are most commonly formed along tectonic plate boundaries and volcanic provinces in water depths from <500 to 5000m. 
  • Process: Seawater seeps into the volcanic rock through cracks and fissures, this hot fluid then circulates through the sub-seafloor, dissolving metals and other elements from the surrounding rocks.
    • Convection carries this hot (up to 450°C), acidic, metal-rich fluid back up towards the surface where it is expelled at the seafloor, creating hydrothermal vents 
    • As this hot fluid reacts with the cold seawater particles of metal sulphide minerals precipitate from the fluid and settle out on the seafloor.
  • Composition: These metalliferous muds contained large amounts of copper, zinc, lead, iron, silver and gold.
  • Occurrence: Massive Sulphides deposits occurs along the mid-ocean ridges, backarc environments, submarine volcanic arcs and in basins near volcanic arcs.

Cobalt-rich Ferromanganese Crusts

International Seabed Authority

  • Occurrence: They are found at shallower depths of <400 to about >5,000 meters in areas of significant volcanic activity.
  • The crusts grow on hard-rock substrates of volcanic origin by the precipitation of metals dissolved in seawater in areas of seamounts, ridges, plateaus and where prevailing currents prevent deposition of unconsolidated sediments and occupy large areas on top of these topography highs.
    • In many cases, the deposits occur within the exclusive economic zone of the countries.
  • Composition: They are similar in general composition to the polymetallic nodules but have higher cobalt percentage (up to 2%), platinum (0.0001%) and rare earth elements besides nickel and manganese.

 

Check Out UPSC CSE Books From PW Store

Deep Sea Mining

  • Deep-sea mining is the process of extracting and often excavating mineral deposits (Cobalt, copper, gold, lead, manganese, nickel, silver, zinc and other rare metals) from the deep seabed achieved through methods such as dredging sand or lifting materials in various ways.
  • The deep seabed is the seabed at ocean depths greater than 200m, and covers about two-thirds of the total seafloor. 

India’s EEZ and Mineral Exploration Rights

  • India’s Exclusive Economic Zone spreads over 2.2 million sq. km. holding significant recoverable resources which lies unexplored and unutilized.
    • Union List: The entry at serial No. 54 of List I mandates the central government to own the minerals within the exclusive economic zone of India (EEZ). 
  • Legal Right: The Parliament has passed  the Offshore Areas Mineral (Development and Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2023, giving two types of operating rights to be granted to private sector through auction by competitive bidding, viz. production lease and composite licence
  • Geological Survey India has delineate the resources of the following minerals in the offshore areas:
    • 79 million tons of heavy mineral placers in the inner-shelf and mid-shelf off Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra.
    • Phosphorite in the Eastern and Western continental margins.
    • Polymetallic Ferromanganese (Fe-Mn) nodules and crusts in Andaman Sea and Lakshadweep Sea.

 

Must Read
UPSC Daily Editorials UPSC Daily Current Affairs
Check Out UPSC NCERT Textbooks From PW Store Check Out UPSC Modules From PW Store 
Check Out Previous Years Papers From PW Store UPSC Test Series 2024
Daily Current Affairs Quiz Daily Main Answer Writing
Check Out UPSC CSE Books From PW Store

 

Union Minister of Coal and Mines, inaugurated the National landslide forecasting centre (NLFC) at Geological Survey of India (GSI) in Kolkata.

Other Initiatives

  • On the sidelines,  the Bhusanket Web Portal and Bhooskhalan Mobile App Initiatives were launched.
    • Bhusanket Web Portal: It will help share important information on landslide hazards and start short-range and medium-range landslide forecasting.
    • Bhooskhalan Mobile App: It will quickly distribute daily landslide forecasts to users.

National Landslide Forecasting Centre (NLFC)

  • Objective:
    • Landslide Hazard Mitigation: It is aimed at reducing landslide risks in India.
    • Early Warning Bulletins: It will  provide early warnings for all landslide-prone states, with a goal to implement the regional Landslide Early Warning System (LEWS) nationwide by 2030.

Enroll now for UPSC Online Classes

Landslide Early Warning System (LEWS)

  • It is a monitoring system that measures the probability of occurrence of landslides.
  • Types of LEWS
    • Early Detection Systems: This system detects landslides while they are occurring. 
    • Predictive Systems: This system detects landslide occurrences before they happen. 

Landslide Susceptibility Map For India: By IIT Delhi

About Landslides 

  • Landslides are rapid movement of rock, debris, or earth down a slope, also known as mass wasting.
  • Landslide-Prone Areas in India: Major hydro-geological hazards affect 15% of India’s landmass, including:
    • Himalayas
    • Northeastern hill ranges
    • Western Ghats
    • Nilgiris
    • Eastern Ghats
    • Vindhyans

Susceptible Regions

  • Himalayas and Western Ghats: Highly prone due to hilly terrain and heavy rainfall.
  • Reason: The northward movement of the Indian plate towards China causes continuous stress on rocks, making them weak and prone to landslides and earthquakes.

Check Out UPSC NCERT Textbooks From PW Store

Causes of Landslide

Natural Causes

Human Causes

  • Heavy Rainfall: Increases soil moisture, causing slopes to fail.
  • Flooding: Undercuts slopes, making them unstable.
  • Earthquakes: Shakes and loosens rocks and soil.
  • Snowmelt: Adds water to slopes, leading to instability.
  • Overgrazing: Reduces vegetation, leading to soil erosion.
  • Terrain Cutting and Filling: Changes in land structure can destabilize slopes.
  • Excessive Development: Construction and deforestation increase landslide risks.

 

About Geological Survey of India (GSI)

  • Establishment and Growth
    • Founded in 1851: Initially set up to find coal deposits for the Railways.
    • Headquarters: Kolkata.
  • Main Functions
    • Geoscientific Information: It creates and updates national geoscientific data.
    • Mineral Resource Assessment: Conducts surveys and investigations for mineral resources.
    • Surveys: It Includes ground, air-borne, and marine surveys.

 

Must Read
UPSC Daily Editorials UPSC Daily Current Affairs
Check Out UPSC NCERT Textbooks From PW Store Check Out UPSC Modules From PW Store 
Check Out Previous Years Papers From PW Store UPSC Test Series 2024
Daily Current Affairs Quiz Daily Main Answer Writing
Check Out UPSC CSE Books From PW Store

 

Kerala’s Health department has released technical guidelines on the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of Amoebic meningoencephalitis.

Amoebic Meningoencephalitis

  • Kerala has reported five cases of Amoebic meningoencephalitis in adolescents in the past three months and with three deaths.
  • The guidelines/standard operating procedure (SOP) is directed to be followed by  all the hospitals when dealing with cases of acute meningitis.

About Amoebic Meningoencephalitis

  • It is a rare but lethal central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) infection caused by free-living amoebas found in freshwater, lakes, and rivers (never in seawater).
    • This disease occurs more often during the warmer months of the year and in warmer climates.
  • Exposure: The amoeba enters through the nasal channels and destroys brain tissue with patients typically having a history of swimming, diving, bathing, or playing in warm, generally stagnant, freshwater during the previous one to 9 days 
  • Types: There are two types of amebic encephalitis,
    • Primary Meningoencephalitis (PAM):
      • Causative Agent: Naegleria fowleri, also known as a “brain eating ameba” and Vermamoeba Vermiformis.
      • Symptoms: It began with a change in smell or taste which later progressed to headache, a stiff neck, sensitivity to light, nausea, and vomiting and seizures.
        • The infection can progress rapidly, causing death within 10 days.
      • Mortality Rate: PAM carries a high mortality rate of greater than 97% with only 11 survivors reported in the literature of the confirmed N fowleri PAM.
    • Granulomatous  Amebic Encephalitis (GAE):
      • Causative Agent: Acanthamoeba species or Balamuthia mandrillaris.
      • Symptoms: It can mimic a brain abscess, encephalitis, or meningitis.
      • It usually occurs in people with a weakened immune system or generally poor health, and typically progresses more slowly than primary amebic meningoencephalitis.
  • Early diagnosis: A spinal tap (lumbar puncture) is done to obtain a sample of cerebrospinal fluid (the fluid that surrounds the brain and spinal cord). This test can exclude some other possible causes of meningitis and brain infection, but doctors are not always able to find the amebas in the sample.
    • Other Techniques to Detect Ameobas:
      • Culture (growing microorganisms in a laboratory until there are enough to identify)
      • Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to check for the genetic material of the ameba
      • A biopsy of brain tissue that is stained and examined under a microscope or analyzed using PCR
  • Treatment: Timely initiation of an antimicrobial cocktail (Miltefosine) might be lifesaving with focus on a drug regimen consisting of an  amebicidal drug (or a combination of drugs) with good in vitro activity that is capable of crossing the blood-brain barrier. There should be good supportive care also.

Enroll now for UPSC Online Course

Highlights of the SOPs On Amoebic Meningoencephalitis

  • Tracing Patient History: Nasal exposure to fresh water in the 14 days before symptom onset should be asked  of any patient who presents with symptoms of acute meningitis.
  • Amoebic MeningoencephalitisDiagnosis: For meningitis patients with a history of recent nasal exposure to fresh water, the cerebro-spinal fluid (CSF) specimen should undergo rapid testing for N. fowleri/FLA .
    • Microbiologist should be immediately alerted about the clinical suspicion before sending CSF sample.
  • Pre Treatment: PAM treatment should be considered for patients with clinical and CSF pictures suggestive of bacterial meningitis who are not responding to antibiotics or are rapidly deteriorating, even in the absence of exposure to fresh water.
  • Treatment: All cases diagnosed as PAM through CSF microscopy should be immediately initiated on the recommended multi-drug regimen and supportive therapy aimed at lowering intracranial pressure.
  • Team: All cases of PAM should be treated by a multidisciplinary team comprising physicians/paediatricians, intensivists, ID specialists, neurologists and microbiologists.
  • Precautions to Follow: 
    • Avoid Water Bodies: One should avoid diving and jumping into stagnant water and keeping head above water when swimming in freshwater, hot springs, and other untreated thermal bodies of water. 
    • Limit Exposure: Use of nose plugs for unavoidable exposures, avoid digging, or stirring up the sediment when participating in water-related activities.
    • Chlorination  and proper maintenance of swimming pools/water theme parks, spas and daily emptying of wading pools
    • Maintaining Nasal Hygiene: To ensure  that water is not forcefully drawn into the nose during showering or washing face and using only filtered, or sterile water for nasal or sinus irrigation 

Check Out UPSC CSE Books From PW Store

Naegleria Fowleri

  • It is also known as a “brain eating ameba”
  • Present In: It is found throughout the world in warm and shallow bodies of fresh water, such as lakes, rivers and hot springs. It also lives in soil but does  not live in salt water.
    • It  also lives in hot springs or warm water discharged from industrial plants, poorly maintained swimming pools with minimal or no chlorination.
    • It can even grow in water heaters at temperatures up to 115° F (46° C) and survive for short periods at higher temperatures. 
  • Free living organism: It is considered a free-living organism because it doesn’t need a host to live.
  • Incubation Period: It takes about two to 15 days after you’ve been exposed to the amoeba for symptoms to develop.

 

Must Read
UPSC Daily Editorials UPSC Daily Current Affairs
Check Out UPSC NCERT Textbooks From PW Store Check Out UPSC Modules From PW Store 
Check Out Previous Years Papers From PW Store UPSC Test Series 2024
Daily Current Affairs Quiz Daily Main Answer Writing
Check Out UPSC CSE Books From PW Store

 

University of Maryland mathematicians used data from 172 ocean buoys to train an AI program to identify wave patterns that precede rogue waves up to five minutes in advance.

Rogue Waves

Rogue Waves are unusually large and unpredictable surface waves that can be extremely dangerous to ships and isolated structures such as lighthouses.

Sea State in Oceanography:

  • Sea State Definition: Refers to the condition of the surface of a large body of water at a specific location and time.
  • WMO Sea State Code: The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) sea state code characterises sea state based on wave height on a scale of 0 (no waves) to 9 (waves over 14 m).
    • They are also known as freak waves, monster waves, episodic waves, killer waves, extreme waves, and abnormal waves.
    • Unlike tsunamis, which are caused by events like earthquakes and are barely noticeable in deep waters; rogue waves are sudden massive ocean waves.
    • Most reports of extreme storm waves look like “walls of water.” They are often steep-sided with unusually deep troughs.

Enroll now for UPSC Online Classes

  • Characteristics of a Rogue Waves: 
    • Defy Average Sea State: Rogue waves are twice the size of surrounding waves.
  • Rogue WavesFormation: According to the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), 
    • Swells Converge: Swells occur due to distant weather systems and not local winds. These Swells converge to raise a single, amplified wave.
    • Ocean Currents: They may also form when ocean currents compress swells to create strong billows.
    • Constructive Interference: Rogue waves form due to a phenomenon known as constructive interference that occurs when two or more waves meet and their crests (the highest point of a wave) align, causing the wave height to increase. This can happen with waves generated by different sources, such as wind and currents, or with waves travelling over a long distance and wavelengths becoming similar.
    • Encountering an Obstacle: Rogue waves can also form when a large wave encounters an obstacle, such as a reef or rising seabed, and the wave’s energy is reflected back onto itself, causing the wave height to increase and creating a large, steep wave that can be difficult for a ship to handle. 
  • Predictability: Rogue waves are not entirely unpredictable.
  • Real-Time Forecasting: The absence of real-time forecasting methods has led to deadly consequences.
    • Between 2011 and 2018, rogue waves caused the deaths of at least 386 people and sank 24 ships, according to the “Catalogue of Rogue Waves Occurred in the World Ocean from 2011 to 2018″ (2020).

AI Training Methodology and Predictive Capabilities for Rogue Waves

  • Distinguish between Normal and Rogue Waves: The Scientists trained their AI using 20-minute recordings from ocean buoys. 
    • They used recordings that ended when a rogue wave happened and compared these with recordings where no rogue waves occurred. 
    • This helped the AI learn to distinguish between normal waves and rogue waves.
  • AI Prediction: This programme was subsequently able to predict about 75% rogue waves one minute in advance. Roughly 73% rogue waves could be predicted five minutes in advance
  • Implication: The researchers showed that the tool could predict rogue waves near buoys at different depths not used in training, suggesting it may have universal predictive capabilities.

Check Out UPSC NCERT Textbooks From PW Store

Potential Improvements for AI Forecasts

  • Enhancing Accuracy: Adding data on water depths, wind speeds, and buoy locations could improve forecast accuracy and advance warning times.
    • Using more advanced Artificial intelligence (AI) architectures and additional data might lead to near-perfect predictions.
Must Read
UPSC Daily Editorials UPSC Daily Current Affairs
Check Out UPSC NCERT Textbooks From PW Store Check Out UPSC Modules From PW Store 
Check Out Previous Years Papers From PW Store UPSC Test Series 2024
Daily Current Affairs Quiz Daily Main Answer Writing
Check Out UPSC CSE Books From PW Store

 

Recently,  the UN High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) on Sustainable Development in New York was organized. 

Key Highlights of the High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) on Sustainable Development

  • Focus on Indigenous Solutions

    • Indigenous Contributions: The forum highlighted how indigenous communities in Rajasthan, India, provide valuable solutions for global challenges like climate change.
    • Global Engagement: Experts highlighted the need to involve indigenous communities in creating sustainable development strategies.
    • Traditional Practices: A representative from Rajasthan shared how tribal traditions help protect the environment and promote sustainability.

Enroll now for UPSC Online Course

High Level Political Forum 

  • HLPF is a major body for overseeing and guiding UN policies related to sustainable development. 
  • Establishment: It was formed in 2013. 
  • Objective: it aims to review progress on the 2030 agenda for sustainable development. 
  • Call to Action for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

    • Forum Theme: The theme was “Reinforcing the 2030 Agenda and eradicating poverty in times of multiple crises.”
    • Ministerial Declaration: A call for renewed efforts to achieve the SDGs, which focus on tackling poverty, inequality, and environmental issues.
    • Commitment to Inclusivity: The UN emphasized the need to ensure that no one is left behind in the implementation of SDGs.
    • Examples of Successful Practices
      • Seed Preservation: Tribes in Rajasthan have maintained indigenous seed varieties, enhancing biodiversity and climate resilience.
      • Agricultural Techniques: Practices like mixed cropping and using uncultivated foods improve food security and self-sufficiency.
      • Community Empowerment: These methods help communities remain resilient during tough times.
      • Water Conservation: Techniques to conserve water at the source.
  • Overall Message

    • Indigenous Knowledge: The forum showcased the potential of indigenous practices to address global issues and support the achievement of SDGs.
    • Need for Collaboration: Greater collaboration and recognition of indigenous communities are essential for a sustainable future.

What Are Indigenous Practices?

  • Indigenous practices involve knowledge, skills, and techniques that have been handed down through generations within a specific community or culture.
  • Cultural Connection: These practices are deeply connected to the local environment and resources.

Impacts and Benefits

  • Crisis Response: Indigenous practices help address global crises like climate change, economic inequality, and environmental degradation.
  • Sustainable Solutions: Tribal methods based on principles of sovereignty contribute to self-sufficiency, better agricultural practices, and enhanced food and livelihood security.
  • Empowerment: Initiatives on seed sovereignty, soil sovereignty, and water conservation have empowered tribal communities to tackle critical challenges collectively.
  • Gender Equality and Human Rights : When aligned with human rights, indigenous cultural practices and values can promote gender equality and respect for human rights.

Check Out UPSC CSE Books From PW Store

Status of Tribal Communities in India

Demographic Status

  • Population Share: Tribal communities make up about 8.9% of India’s population.
  • Particularly Vulnerable Groups: Approximately 2.6 million (2.5%) are part of “Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups” (PVTGs), also known as Primitive Tribes, who are the most disadvantaged among Scheduled Tribes.
  • Geographical Distribution: Tribes are spread across various states, with significant populations in Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Rajasthan, the Northeast Region (NER), and the Andaman & Nicobar Islands.

Cultural Status

  • Rich Heritage: Tribal communities have unique cultures, languages, and traditions.
  • Connection to Nature: They rely on forests and hills for their livelihood and maintain a close relationship with nature.
  • Distinct Practices: They have their own beliefs and practices related to health, education, religion, and governance.

Constitutional and Statutory Provisions

  • Recognition: Some tribal communities are recognized as Scheduled Tribes (STs) under Article 342 of the Indian Constitution.
  • Special Provisions: They receive special protections and provisions for their social, economic, educational, and political development.
  • Legal Safeguards: Their rights are protected by laws like the 5th and 6th Scheduled Areas, the Forest Rights Act 2006, and the Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act (PESA) 1996.
  • Political Representation: They have reserved seats in Parliament and State Legislatures.
    • Historical Achievement: Draupadi Murmu is India’s first tribal President.

Developmental Status

  • Challenges: Tribal communities face significant challenges including poverty, illiteracy, malnutrition, poor health, and limited employment opportunities.
  • Development Gaps: They lag behind the national average in areas like income, education, health, sanitation, and gender equality.
  • Discrimination and Exploitation: They often face discrimination, exploitation, displacement, and violence, with limited access to resources and opportunities for empowerment.

 

Must Read
UPSC Daily Editorials UPSC Daily Current Affairs
Check Out UPSC NCERT Textbooks From PW Store Check Out UPSC Modules From PW Store 
Check Out Previous Years Papers From PW Store UPSC Test Series 2024
Daily Current Affairs Quiz Daily Main Answer Writing
Check Out UPSC CSE Books From PW Store

 

Aiming for UPSC?

Download Our App

      
Quick Revise Now !
AVAILABLE FOR DOWNLOAD SOON
UDAAN PRELIMS WALLAH
Comprehensive coverage with a concise format
Integration of PYQ within the booklet
Designed as per recent trends of Prelims questions
हिंदी में भी उपलब्ध
Quick Revise Now !
UDAAN PRELIMS WALLAH
Comprehensive coverage with a concise format
Integration of PYQ within the booklet
Designed as per recent trends of Prelims questions
हिंदी में भी उपलब्ध

<div class="new-fform">






    </div>

    Subscribe our Newsletter
    Sign up now for our exclusive newsletter and be the first to know about our latest Initiatives, Quality Content, and much more.
    *Promise! We won't spam you.
    Yes! I want to Subscribe.